I have always been a believer of visualization to reach goals or move myself in the direction I want to go. Lately, I have also started writing down, with great details, some of my intentions in life.

I can warmly recommend it. Studies show that you increase your chances of achieving your goals with 30-40% if you “paint” them and write them down!

I reviewed some of these notes earlier this month, and in one of the pages I had described a "perfect day" in my future life. It started with me waking up to a sunny day in a setting containing snow and mountains. And here I find myself today, just about to go out to do some Nordic skiing. In the mountains. With snowflakes falling. It is magic.

I feel ready to embrace 2024 with open arms. I feel blessed being able to revisit the places that makes me feel alive and revitalized regularly.  For me, the mountains have always been a sanctuary, a place where the magic snow (during wintertime) transforms the landscape into something magical.

During the Christmas break I listened to a podcast featuring a history professor who beautifully spoke about snow & snowflakes. He described snowflakes as marvels of nature. Beginning their journey as mere droplets of water and, through their short existence in the air, morph into beautiful ice crystals that bring them new properties. Each crystal being unique and a nice illustration of the magic of diversity.

The traditionally Sami speaking people (inhabiting the northern part of the Nordic countries) seem to better understand the diversity of, what we describe as “snow” simply, with their impressive 300 different words for snow..

In Sweden, snow has long been a cherished element. The discovery of a 5,000-year-old ski is a testament to its historical significance. It was not just a part of the landscape but a strategic asset, facilitating the transportation of goods and connecting communities. In combination with the northern lights, it was even more magic.

However,the onset of the industrial revolution and the relentless pace of modern life have altered our relationship with snow. What was once an ally and resource was now becoming an unpredictable and time-consuming obstacle...

Today, our climate is changing, and the snow that once blanketed our landscapes is becoming an increasingly rare phenomenon. Since 1970, the expanse of snow in the northern hemisphere has nearly halved. This stark reality serves as a clear reminder of the fragility of our environment and the urgent need to protect it.

This year is special; for a few weeks we have had snow in the southern part of Sweden. People are out skiing and ice skating and seem truly happy about the joy and light it brings. I have come to realize that snow is a true motivator for me. It inspires me and pushes me forward, to make (for me) meaningful changes!

Snow is one clear indicator for the achievement of the Paris agreement.

It all comes together; personal health and health of our planet. WHO predicts that between 2030-2050, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250,000 additional deaths per year.

Sadly, today’s healthcare also strongly contributes to climate change with its 4,4%+ contribution to the net global GHG emissions. As we, meaning the global population, are only getting unhealthier every day, it is not looking great.

For 2024, I have committed to myself to embrace two new resolutions:

*One to enhance my personal health (to potentially release some pressure on the healthcare system in the future)

*One that contributes positively to the preservation of snow & health of our planet

As we look forward to the year ahead, I also hope for increased sustainable initiatives within the healthcare sector, from providers to procurers and the industry at large. I wish for joint work to ensure that the delicate beauty of the snowflake endures for generations to come.

‍

Here's to a 2024 filled with health, sustainability, and the preservation of our precious planet.

For a vibrant “vivantelife”!

‍